Re: 99 Altima wouldn't start (kicks over OK but then coughs & dies)

Joe,

Very similar to our 1993 altima.

It kicks over or 'starts fine' but then coughs a bit then dies. This happens only in the summer during hot weather. When it is very hot it will not start till the engine cools off. This is very annoying when making lots of short trips like the library, then grocery shopping, etc. We spent several hundred dollars and a very good mechanic could not figure it out.

Band aids;

  1. we find that it happens less often when using hi - octane fuel

This morning the Altima wouldn't start for my wife. When I got home from

> work I checked it over. It would turn over but not fire. At first I wasn't > sure if it was fuel or electrical related. But, then it gave the littlest > hint that it would fire. So, I pressed the gas a couple of times and turned > the ignition switch for a few moments and it started. It stalled as soon as > I eased off the gas pedal but, started right up. Now it starts every time > with no problem. Has anyone else had this type of problem. The car has about > 50K miles on it. We've had no other problems with this car before. > > Also, does any know if there are any fault codes for this car, without > buying testing equipment? My old 87 Plymouth had simple diagnostic built > into it. > > TIA > > Joe > >
Reply to
Bob
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Joe,

Regarding fault codes. I found the ECM on my '95 under the center console near the front floor heater vents. Hit your local library (cheap way) and take out a Haynes or Chilton's manual made for that year/make/model. The codes will be listed in the Emissions System chapter. Otherwise, Advance Auto, Auto Zone, etc. have them for around $15.

I just went and bought one for all my cars in case I decide to do something weird on a Sunday whent he library doors are locked!

I'm not a technician during my day job but, most starting problems on the average are ignition problems. In effect, spark. I'd first make sure that every single plug is firing a strong spark. The manual's good for that too and will recommend you to buy a timing light. It's probably the easiest way to do it.

The remaining part of the time the engine is being starved of fuel. Heck, this can be as simple as a seriously clogged fuel filter which, should be replaced on a regular interval anyway. However, the manual may recommend a way to test for fuel pressure delivered by the fuel pump (which is what would be compromised by a clogged filter).

Pork

Reply to
Gar

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